An oxidation product of the union of ethyl-mercaptan and acetone, introduced by Kast in 1888.

Characteristics. "Colourless, inodorous, nearly tasteless crystals; neutral to test paper; melting at 258° F. (125°-5C.) Soluble in fifteen parts of boiling water, four hundred and fifty parts of cold water, or fifty parts of rectified spirit."-1890 Add. to B. P.

In small white crystals, easily powdering; sparingly soluble in water; without taste or odour.

Therapeutics. Of service when sleeplessness is persistent, producing calm normal sleep in about an hour's time.

Dose, 15 to 25 grains for a woman, 20 to 40 grains for a man, an hour before bed-time, in a powder or suspended in water.

For its good efficient hypnotic effects, see Brit. Med. Journ., 1889. pages 838, 1245, and 1333.

"Increasing in favour; a first-rate and safe hypnotic, especially in brain worry or mental strain where the mind gives way." - See Dr. J. Gordon, Brit. Med. Journ., 29.3.90.